Fecal Incontinence

Do the following sound familiar?

• Frequent bowel accidents
• Monitoring what and how much you eat
• Using pads or protective garments
• Planning activities around the bathroom

These are symptoms of fecal incontinence. Many people experience problems with bowel and bladder continence — about 1 in 12 adults in the United States experiences symptoms of fecal incontinence. This adds up to around 21 million adults in the U.S. that are affected by fecal incontinence. These symptoms can cause problems emotionally, physically and even socially. Fecal incontinence (FI) is a treatable condition. It can be frustrating, but you don't have to face it alone. 

Treating Fecal Incontinence

The first step to relieving your symptoms is to speak with a digestive health provider. There are a variety of treatment options that the providers at Digestive Health Center can offer you. Treatment options can include simple solutions such as fiber supplementation and optimization of your medications. If these options don't work for you, we have more nuanced and individualized approaches including sacral neuromodulation with the InterStim™ Systems. 

InterStim Therapy

InterStim therapy, also known as sacral neuromodulation (SNM), is a medical treatment used for individuals that experience bowel control problems and fecal incontinence. The therapy involves the use of a device called an InterStim system. This device regulates the signals sent between the brain, spinal cord and the nerves that control the bladder and bowel function. InterStim therapy is typically performed in two stages.

In stage one, a temporary lead is placed near the sacral nerves and connected to an external neurostimulator. This trial period allows you to assess the effectiveness of the therapy before choosing to proceed with a permanent implant. If the trial period is successful and you experience significant improvement of your symptoms, you can choose to proceed to the second stage. The second stage involves the surgical implantation of the permanent InterStim system. 

Connect for More Information

If you have problems with bowel continence, you don't have to face it alone. Our team at the Digestive Health Center is committed to helping you achieve symptom relief and get back to living life without interruptions. No matter what treatment option you choose, our expert providers are ready to guide you on your journey. Reach out to our office at 828-757-5074